Cades Cove is located in the NorthWest corner of Smoky Mountain National Park. It has an 11 mile driving loop that features historic sites, wildflower fields, and viewing of resident wildlife. The park provided a gist on how the valley developed over the years and how it became part of the park.

The view of the landscape and vegetation of Cades Cove was picturesque. I wondered how it might have looked like during the different seasons. A time when there were more resident wildlife roaming the area.

We spotted one of the resident wildlife – a black bear. It was no wonder that vehicular traffic was backing up. Contrary to advise, people got out of their vehicles and started taking photographs. Too close to the bear. Too close for the comfort of their safety. The bear was appearing comfortable with human presence. It went about with its business of foraging for food.

I was lucky that the bear crossed the road in front of my vehicle. I didn’t get out of my vehicle. There were more wildlife at Yellowstone National Park but the only grizzly bear that I saw was through a scope at almost a mile distance.

The bear was initially oblivious of people’s presence. It gradually became anxious looking as more people got out of their vehicles and gathered closer. After crossing the road, the bear gave one last look back before disappearing into the bushes.